Maybe it's a knife...
Remember that a reactive fight implies an ambush by the attacker, and that's what we'll stick with right now... A reactive fight that came to you.
In this instance, maybe you get cold cocked and knocked to the ground, maybe you slipped and fell when the body alarm response happened, either way shit has went very, VERY wrong and you are now on the ground.
If we're looking at weapons deployment, we must look at where the weapon is carried first and foremost.
We'll cover a knife only with this one.
The hip pocket is where most carry their tactical folders and it's a neutral position, really.
If you are carrying a fixed blade or a large folder tucked somewhere, the popular places are boot top or ankle, neck, on concealed body armor, small of the back, on or behind the hip like a handgun, or the appendix position.
The ankle is a good position for groundfighting... The fight pretty much ends when you achieve a full guard. Blades go on the outside of the ankle... They're thinner than guns and easier to hide without getting the calf in the way. I have been known to carry boot knives pretty regularly.
If the blade is on the neck or armor you probably won't be able to access it in a groundfight. Sorry. I've tried and I'm certain there are some who can but I just can't get a REACTIVE draw from one of those under stress done quickly.
Small of the back is stupid... For concealing anything, and really, it's an injury waiting to happen on the ground. Think of it like this... How will you access that off your back? Answer: You WON'T! What if you wind up in a back mount? Now your weapon is exposed... Think it won't get used on you? THINK AGAIN! Besides... Retention back there is a nightmare.
We all know why I don't like carrying a pistol on or behind the hip standing up... And whether it's a gun or a knife, accessing something in that position while on the ground is extremely difficult. You would have to get that side up off the ground to access the weapon and have enough range of motion to clear the weapon and get it in the fight.
The appendix position is great for access and speed but you have to get off your back quickly as the weapon is exposed... Fortunately, retention is fairly easy with something in this position.
I challenge every one who reads this to place their blades, or handguns, or whatever else you carry where you usually carry it and play with on the ground... It may just wake you up. If you're equipment setup works well on the ground and on your feet, pat yourself on the back.
Stay Frosty and Watch Your 6
V/R
-Kenny Smith
Chief Master Instructor
TFTG President